United Commentaries

Isa.59.1-20

The Lord alone can and will usher in his salvation. Like a warrior, he will break into the world to avenge himself on his enemies and to vindicate his holy people.

Isa.59.1-8

The people complained that the Lord could not rescue them, but the real problem was that they had not repented (59:20) and were still living in sin.

Isa.59.1

not too weak: The delay in their rescue could not be attributed to an inherent weakness in the Lord.

Isa.59.2

your sins . . . cut you off: The Israelites, like all people (Rom 3:15-17), had sinned, which resulted in alienation from God (he has turned away).

Isa.59.4

being fair and honest: Israel did not practice these qualities that are part of God’s nature and that he expects from people (1:21; see 25:1).

Isa.59.5-6

The images of deadly snakes and spiders’ webs represent plans designed to destroy others’ lives and relationships.

Isa.59.7-8

Paul quotes from these verses in his description of the depravity of all people (Rom 3:15-17).

Misery and destruction: The people lamented being victims of oppression (Isa 51:19), yet they were oppressors themselves.

Isa.59.9-15

Israel’s history of rebellion was well established. The prophet here confesses the nation’s sins and laments that they could not apprehend the light of God’s salvation.

Isa.59.10

people without eyes: See 6:10; Deut 28:29.

Isa.59.11-14

The people growl and moan with longing for redemption, finally coming to terms with their sinfulness.

Isa.59.15-17

The Lord goes out as a warrior intent on achieving victory against the wicked (cp. Eph 6:14).

Isa.59.18

repay his enemies: The Lord will dole out righteous retribution on the whole earth. His justice requires people to be judged for the evil they have done (see also 3:9-11; 13:9).

Isa.59.19

In the west . . . in the east: I.e., in all parts of the world.

Isa.59.21

The members of the new community have the Spirit, and they know and practice God’s word (see also Ezek 36:24-28). The Lord promises to regenerate the children by his Spirit and bring them into the covenant of obedience and love for the Lord (Joel 2:28; Acts 2:39).